The role of HLA-DRB1 matching in corneal grafting

The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of HLA-DRB1 (Human Leukocyte Antigens) matching in corneal transplantation. Fifty-two patients were observed. Low-risk group consisted of 28 patients and high-risk group consisted of 24 patients. All the patients and donors were tissue typed with Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) on the HLA-DRB1 gen. The primary corneal disease preceding keratoplasty was keratopathia (15), leucoma (10), keratoconus (7), Re-KPP (6), impending perforation (4), combustio corneae (3), degenerative disorders (2), keratoglobus (1), keratouveitis (1), corneal maculae (1), and corneal melting syndrome (1). The graft rejection frequency was higher in the group of high-risk patients (29%) than in the group of low risk patients (7.1%). The rejection rate of compatible grafts was 37% for high risk and 2% for low risk group, while the rejection rate of incompatible was 44% in high risk and 5% in low risk group. We can conclude that HLA-DRB1 matching does not improve corneal graft survival.